Rooted in place, SALON by Luke Dale Roberts crafts an all-season culinary journey in Cape Town

In the vibrant heart of Cape Town’s Old Biscuit Mill, a culinary revolution continues to unfold. SALON, the brainchild of renowned restaurateur Luke Dale Roberts and Executive Chef Carla Schulze, has swiftly become a beacon of innovative fine dining, offering a multi-layered culinary experience that celebrates both global influences and the rich seasonal bounty of the Cape.

Since opening its doors in 2023, SALON has refined what it means to dine in style, transforming its space into an elegant sanctuary with crisp white tablecloths, bespoke crockery, and eye-catching glassware. Thhe restaurant’s evolving menu, which is a testament to two decades of culinary exploration by Dale Roberts, now places an even greater emphasis on seasonality. As a result, it harnesses the freshest ingredients at their peak and elevates them with international flair.

A voyage of flavour, rooted in the seasons

The SALON journey begins with a delightful array of snacks, each paired with seasonal cocktails that tease the palate. During Cape’s winter months, for instance, diners might indulge in Thai-inspired prawn tacos with vibrant local citrus, followed by earthier delights like truffle-filled Morels in a rich celeriac broth or a Japanese-inspired Jerusalem artichoke chawanmushi. They complete the expertly curated selection with a plate of wagyu biltong atop chestnut and quince, which is a nod to local heritage and ingredients.

Though these delights may seem substantial enough to serve as a meal, they are merely a tantalising introduction to the main event: a choice between the eight-course Global Tasting Menu or the six-course Explorer Menu. Every dish is a masterclass in harmony, showcasing the finest local produce fused with global culinary wisdom.

A masterclass in culinary artistry

Each plate at SALON tells a story, creating a carefully curated narrative where the beauty of seasonal ingredients takes centre stage. For example, from shaved cheeses served tableside to flambéed duck Suzette with citrus emulsion, the dining experience is elevated by thoughtful and theatrical service. Dale Roberts, renowned for his balance between entertainment and cuisine, believes in service that enhances the dish’s flavour and presentation. Consequently, he ensures that theatre remains in service and does not become a distraction.

One of the restaurant’s signature touches is the Sicilian-inspired crab cannoli, which is finished with a dram of nitro-frozen wood sorrel pesto. This creates a playful and yet sophisticated fusion of visual art and taste. Additionally, this commitment to innovation, which is rooted in respect for tradition and the season’s bounty, permeates every aspect of the meal.

The perfect pairing: wine, cocktails, and spirit

Guiding diners through this culinary landscape is Tadiswa Chikwanha, SALON’s award-winning sommelier. A Zimbabwean-born expert with extensive local accolades and qualifications from the UK’s Wine & Spirit Education Trust, Chikwanha meticulously curates wine and non-alcoholic pairings to complement each course. His selection, which includes boutique Cape wines and seasonal cocktails, enhances rather than masks the cuisine’s nuances.

Post-meal, guests can indulge in the ‘Nightcap Trolley,’ a charming table-side service featuring local spirits and liqueurs. From aged brandies to fiery ‘mampoer’ and creamy Amarula, this final gesture celebrates Cape Town’s spirited heritage — and the restaurant’s own roots. Fittingly, the closing sweet is a Romany Cream macaron, a nostalgic nod to the city’s culinary history.

A culinary destination for all seasons

SALON’s ethos is one of rooted elegance, which means it is a place where culinary artistry celebrates the changing seasons and the unique sense of place that Cape Town offers. For example, with menus priced at R1690 for the full tasting experience and R875 for the winter explorer, complemented by optional beverage pairings, it provides an accessible yet refined gateway into a world of sophisticated gastronomy.

Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner, SALON is redefining fine dining in Cape Town — a place where art, innovation, and tradition converge to create an experience that’s as memorable as it is masterful. For reservations, visit salonct.co.za or contact the team directly.

In the city that’s a marvel of natural beauty and cultural richness, SALON stands out as a testament to the extraordinary potential of seasonal, rooted cuisine — a true destination for connoisseurs and explorers alike.